Interactions among polyphagous anthocorid bugs used for thrips control and other beneficials in multi-species biological pest management systems.

Abstract

Interactions between anthocorid bugs ( Orius majusculus ) for control of western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis ), gall midges (Aphidoletes aphidimyza ) for control of cotton aphids ( Aphis gossypii ), and predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis ) for control of spider mites (Tetranychus urticae ) on pot gerbera ( Gerbera jamesonii ) were investigated in climate controlled glasshouse cabinets. The experiments suggested that by introducing anthocorids in a ratio to thrips of